KENINGAU: Police launched an operation to curb illegal street racing on public roads here on Saturday (Feb 28) and uncovered cash betting activities and drug use.
Keningau Police Chief Supt Yampil Garai said the integrated Op Bersepadu, held from 11.30pm to 3am (March 1), was conducted following public tip-offs and intelligence gathered.
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He said police also inspected 130 individuals and 105 vehicles at the scene, leading to the discovery of the suspected use of Methamphetamine and ketum water.
“The operation involved 36 officers and personnel drawn from several units,” he said, adding a man was arrested under Section 12(3) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
Ten other men were detained under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for failing to produce valid identification documents.
A total of 25 traffic summonses were also issued for various offences.
Yampil said police have always supported sports programmes that are properly planned and approved by the authorities.
“However, in this case, the activity was carried out on a public road without permission and involved elements of gambling and substance abuse,” he said.
He said public roads are shared infrastructure and that any activity disrupting traffic flow or posing safety risk constituted a breach of the law.
“The action taken is based on information and evidence gathered, in line with existing legal provisions,” he said, adding that the operation also aimed to prevent accidents, substance abuse and the normalisation of unhealthy activities among young people.
Yampil said police are committed to carrying out their duties professionally, prudently and without bias to safeguard public safety and order.
He urged parents and the local community to closely monitor their children’s activities to ensure they do not become entangled in criminal conduct that could jeopardise their future.
